Impact of Système International conversion on laboratory information systems

As laboratories in the United States convert to reporting test results in Système International (SI) units, certain requirements will be placed on laboratory computers. Old and new results must be related to different reference ranges. Interpretive reporting and reflexive testing algorithms must be updated to the new units. Reporting in minimum increments is worthwhile, regardless of the SI conversion timetable. On the other hand, dual reporting is not advisable, as it would clutter reports and increase the cost and complexity of SI conversion, without yielding benefits. Results should be converted to SI units at the instrument, not by the computer. The Greek mu (mu) may be represented as u. Conversion graphs can be printed on the unused reverse side of report forms. The most important factors in the success of conversion to SI reporting will be thorough education of those reading the reports, and coordination of the conversion process within each locality.